Shenzhen launches 8th international children's ocean festival

Shenzhen’s Ocean Park in Yantian District was awash with blue hues of a different kind on Sunday afternoon as the 8th International Children’s Ocean Festival was launched. 

Zhou Yunxiang (R), president of BOCA, outlines the impressive lineup of activities for this year’s festival. Photos courtesy of the organizers except otherwise stated

This vibrant event, a collaborative effort between the Shenzhen Women and Children’s Development Foundation and the Shenzhen Blue Ocean Conservation Association (BOCA), kicked off with a flourish, drawing over 150 representatives from schools, volunteer organizations, students, and businesses.

The launch ceremony marked the beginning of the “Children’s Ocean Service Month,” a series of initiatives designed to instill a deep appreciation for marine ecosystems in the younger generation.

Young artists engage in a vibrant 100-meter collaborative painting. Zhang Yu

Highlights included the unveiling of an initiative calling for children to protect the oceans, a vibrant 100-meter collaborative painting by children, and the presentation of plaques to ocean environmental education bases and awards to collaborators.

The festival, now in its eighth year, has become a beloved tradition in Shenzhen, reflecting the city’s commitment to both its children and the vital oceans that surround it.

Children learn about marine life and the importance of ocean conservation at one of the booths at the launch ceremony.

Since its inception in 2018, the International Children’s Ocean Festival has consistently championed marine environmental education, recognizing the right of every child to connect with nature and fostering a sense of stewardship for our blue planet. This dedication resonates deeply with Shenzhen’s vision of a “child-friendly city” and a “global ocean center city,” contributing significantly to the city’s sustainable development goals.

Young artists engage in a vibrant 100-meter collaborative painting.

During his address, Zhou Yunxiang, president of BOCA, outlined the impressive lineup of activities for this year’s festival. For three months, children and their families can participate in a wide array of events.

At the launch event, 20 booths offered engaging games and activities that taught children about marine life and the importance of ocean conservation in a fun and memorable way. A highlight for many was the 100-meter painting scroll, where young artists expressed their love and fascination for the ocean through colorful artwork.